HEADS UP Mentoring Initiative

HEADS UP mentoring has been in existence for 3 years at Gateway. The program is open to all students of Gateway, including students in the English Language Learning (ELL), Adult Basic Education (ABE) and Veteran programs. HEADS UP mentoring is an enriching, relationship building experience where students are able to expand their support network. Participating students are paired with a Gateway staff member, administrator or faculty member that will provide coaching, a listening ear, and perspective.

Student benefits from the mentor's insights and experiences in regards to navigating higher education and embarking on their careers. Students are able to strengthen their listening and communication skills. Additionally, mentors provide opportunities for students to expand their support network, increase their social capital and engage in mutually benefiting relationships.

Through an application process, Gateway staff interested in being mentors and students interested in being mentees, express information regarding their interests, goals, and purpose for wanting to be part of HEADS UP Mentoring Initiative. Both need to commit to engaging in a meaningful relationship, have consistent and regular communication. Mentor and mentee pairings are chosen based on personal interests and student's goals.

Benefits of Having a Mentor:

Insider’s perspective on navigating your career

Someone to bounce ideas off

A champion to cheer you on

Hold you accountable

Receive critical feedback

Help you to make decisions about your career path

Exposure to diverse perspectives and experiences

Provide you with impartial advice

Boost your career prospects and growth

Open doors for you

Help you to succeed if you do the work

Gain access to your mentor’s network of contacts

Learn from their real-world experiences

Learn specific skills and knowledge that are relevant to professional goals

Expand your leadership abilities

Increase the capacity to translate values and strategies into productive actions

Allow for increased self-awareness and self-discipline

Questions? Please feel free to reach out to your Multicultural Student Support Specialist: